Mike, thanks again for a very informative video on the sound box and single crossover. I use Kato Unitrack and thus have been eager to see the single crossover in operation. I envision using it in a yard versus on the mainline. Your videos are an excellent service to the hobby.
Thanks again Mike. Your videos are always helpful. Have used Peco track in the past for my small exhibition layout, but thinking of using Kato in my next one. Really like your ideas for creating flex track from Kato too. Scott from Scotland
A very interesting and informative video on a system that certainly bears further investigation. I also was interested in your Kato track as I almost regret not using it on my 19' X 9' (5M X 3M) two levels Feather River Layout which has taken me around 7 years to get it to the state of mayhem it currently resides in. I was lucky enough to have the assistance of The Late Bruce Wetzig for about 4 of those 7 years who helped me so much to get it to the stage it is now. When Bruce passed last year with Cancer I not only lost my Best Mate but also my Chief Engineer and I miss him terribly but am pushing on, sort of. His model of The Keddie Wye Bridge he built and helped install on my Layout is something I am privileged to own. I believe you are also a N Gauge Forum Member as I am ( Aussie Denis ). I was lucky enough to meet some of the Guys at Wigan Model Railway Exhibition last year which was a real highlight for me on our 9 weeks in The U K. You can get me also on marg_den@bigpond.net.au if you would like to see photos of The Keddie Wye. Regards, Denis May.
Denis , I would love for you to send photos of the layout to the shop addy at fhs@fiferhobby.com and would love to do it as the featured layout for awhile. I would also need some layout information to post with the pictures as well. Thanks Denis, Mike
***** My pleasure Mike if you could e-mail me on marg_den@bigpond.net.au I will put you in my system and it will aid my crappy computer skills with sending the photos. There is some on the N Gauge Forum under Aussie Denis should you wish to have a peek beforehand. Cheers, Denis.
Thank you Mike for your nice review. I bought 2 single crossovers, one right and one left working together with a double crossover; my 4 and 6 axle locomotives running just fine in either direction. I don't have steam engines so I did not test that. I do agree on #6's though!
Mike I like these No. 4's compared to the No.6 Double Crossover and the Reason is I think the Trains seem to Roll over them a Bit smoother they to me have a little better set of Frogs for the Trains to cross, my only Gripe is that they Tend to Ride a Bit high on a Flat Board or Very Flat surface, I have 2 No. 4's one I use on the Main at the Back side of my Layout where I was using the Double Cross, The one that's in my Yard I Glue it Down to hold it Down instead of using some other Source.. I will say the Double Cross No. 6 Sets allot Flatter to the Board and I think that's do in part of the Flat Metal surface under the Turnout if the 20-220 and 221 had a Metal surface instead of all plastic, I think they would Lay Flatter.. And I Totally Agree I think a No.6 Built like the 20-220 & 221 is much needed it would make Yard making a bit easier I think.. My U.P. Water Tenders Go through these Turnouts really well they hold there own for there Size.. I have a Video of my U.P. SD 90/43 pulling the Tenders with the my U.P. / MOPAC SD 70Ace following in the Consist then pulling my MAXXI's that I got from ya they're doing really Good on the Rails.. On Ending this It's Really Cold out brrr... but warm inside and the Trains are having lots a Fun running on the Rails : ) Take Care Talk ta Soon.. AKR
Nice video, Kato has a video on their website about the sound box as well for those interested. Not to be stepping on your toes there Mike, just sharing the information.
Thanks Mike, I have looked at the sound unit & thought that maybe something that would be cute for when I show the layout to friends, like you I'm not sure if I want to have sound it the engines either, great review. I just noticed KATO USA does review not the sound unit too, they also so have videos on other sound cards.
Hi Mike, nice review. The EMD sound in the sound box sounds pretty good along with the other sounds it offers. This unit definitely sounds better than the generic sound in the MRC sound units. I think the Kato unit would be a nice addition on small layouts using DC power. For larger layouts, I think the SurroundTraxx sound unit for DCC layouts would be better. Kato's crossover track is long overdue. Like you I would like to see it using #6 turnouts. I wonder how 6 axle units would handle the crossover along with the steam locos? I have used Kato Unitrack for 14yrs and have been very satisfied with their quality. Thanks for showing us the new products by Kato!
Hi Mike! Dirty track aside, GREAT review!! That "Sound Box" is an excellent addition to any DC layout. Does it work with other scales/brands?? I have a friend who would be interested in something like that. Neck! I'm thinking about a small N Scale layout, or even a coffee table layout. That would be great for it!! Thank you Mike!
Oh, and I went to Kato's website... #6 button lowers prime mover to idle sound, for coasting and/or slowing. Advancing the throttle overrides the #6 function, and revs her back up. I'm very impressed!
Hello Mike. Many thanks for a very informative video. I guess it would be correct to say that the Soundbox operation is not limited to just one track ? John ( U.K )
I have the double crossover and some railcars do derail on the #4's. I am planning to remove them and just use peco single crossover using their turnouts. My layout is all peco.
I have the crossover wich is not much good, it always brings off the goods or passenger coaches every time I used it. Tony McKenna Gateacre Liverpool England.
The old momentum/sound systems from years ago had a "breaking" switch you had to hit or pump so you don't drift past your intended stop. Does the throttle on your transformer that actually controls your speed actually drift like in reality and if so...does it immediately come to a stop when you reduce throttle or is it gradual in response like actual momentum systems?
I have seen many complaints about the #4 turnouts and how you have to modify them. So that issue is not a problem on the single cross over? I wonder why.
Still use this unit? I ended up buying one but is in storage right now (i.e, moving) so will use when I finally unpack. I don't use a Kato controller so will need to do some splicing of wires.
Great Showing Mike Like the SoundBox allot I want one Now for my Small set and that Cross over wished they had em back when I had my ole set I'd probably stayed in the Railroading longer Good Products.. for sure Hey Mike I'd like add & this might be kind of a long winded Question but can you sometime Demo running 2 engines on a NON" DCC system and the effects on each Engine.! I want to run my 2 engines on my set but I'm kind of Afraid it may hurt one or possibly both engines one of the Guys at Kato USA says it can be Done but unless I haven't looked good enough I have not seen this take place here on TH-cam if it has sorry for not Looking Quite Good enough as I mentioned I like watching all your Videos.. You remind me of my Uncle that was well into all kinds of Hobby He had his Own personal Steam engine one you could ride behind.. I miss him Greatly
akr3985fan I will likely not do a video on that but it is very common to run DC locos on the same train together. In the older days when there was only DC they used what was called Block Control to run more than one train. modeltrains.about.com/od/electronicsdcc/ss/Wiring-A-Model-Railroad-For-Block-Operation.htm th-cam.com/video/W73o6g2zjaQ/w-d-xo.html Thanks , Mike
I think they did the switch up with the number 4 style so it would look good as to the number 6 style had that screw in the middle of the track at the points ....it looks good whats the cost on them
Another great video Mike ! Was wondering, since I am DC, use Atlas code 80 and use six Troller Twin Momentum Five transformers, if the sound boxes could be wired to work with them as well. Also what kind of plugs are used for the extra external speakers ? Thanks, Ernie
I am sure you can Ernie. You may want to look at Kato's video on the sound Box. I am not up on speaker plugs but it just looks like a small stereo plug. th-cam.com/video/ZspASybSgnQ/w-d-xo.html Mike
I figure that is for mostly DC locomotives and some dcc locos that don't have sound decoders. sounds like a inexpensive way to add sound if you didn't want to fork out $250+ for a loco with sound. It has the basics at least (bell and horn and engine sound). Good enough for me.
Mike, thanks again for a very informative video on the sound box and single crossover. I use Kato Unitrack and thus have been eager to see the single crossover in operation. I envision using it in a yard versus on the mainline. Your videos are an excellent service to the hobby.
You are an excellent ambassador to the hobby. I always enjoy your hobby postings. Thank you.
Thanks for the kind words Jeff , You to are a great inspiration to the hobby.
Mike
Thanks Mike, great stuff. Look forward to more,Hopefully Kato will make a #6 crossover.
That is my hope too although late for my layout.
Mike
kato is brilliant. changed my life
I like the look of the wood ties on that crossover. Hopefully kato will make more of their track to look like that
I too like the look and am glad they are adding some new pieces. Now for curved turnouts in #6.
Mike
Thanks again Mike. Your videos are always helpful. Have used Peco track in the past for my small exhibition layout, but thinking of using Kato in my next one. Really like your ideas for creating flex track from Kato too.
Scott from Scotland
Thanks Scott, I hoped all the ideas collected would help folks.
Mike
A very interesting and informative video on a system that certainly bears further investigation. I also was interested in your Kato track as I almost regret not using it on my 19' X 9' (5M X 3M) two levels Feather River Layout which has taken me around 7 years to get it to the state of mayhem it currently resides in. I was lucky enough to have the assistance of The Late Bruce Wetzig for about 4 of those 7 years who helped me so much to get it to the stage it is now.
When Bruce passed last year with Cancer I not only lost my Best Mate but also my Chief Engineer and I miss him terribly but am pushing on, sort of. His model of The Keddie Wye Bridge he built and helped install on my Layout is something I am privileged to own. I believe you are also a N Gauge Forum Member as I am ( Aussie Denis ). I was lucky enough to meet some of the Guys at Wigan Model Railway Exhibition last year which was a real highlight for me on our 9 weeks in The U K.
You can get me also on marg_den@bigpond.net.au if you would like to see photos of The Keddie Wye.
Regards, Denis May.
Denis , I would love for you to send photos of the layout to the shop addy at fhs@fiferhobby.com and would love to do it as the featured layout for awhile. I would also need some layout information to post with the pictures as well.
Thanks Denis, Mike
***** My pleasure Mike if you could e-mail me on marg_den@bigpond.net.au I will put you in my system and it will aid my crappy computer skills with sending the photos. There is some on the N Gauge Forum under Aussie Denis should you wish to have a peek beforehand. Cheers, Denis.
Denis May Email Sent Denis, Thanks , Mike
***** Denis , I can not find you on N Gauge Forum UK. Are you talking about another forum???
Mike, always appreciate your reviews. I also hope to see a #6 crossover soon. As always a great job!
Thanks Mike, Mike
Thanks! All your videos are VERY helpful!
Thanks Joanne , Mike
Thank you Mike for your nice review. I bought 2 single crossovers, one right and one left working together with a double crossover; my 4 and 6 axle locomotives running just fine in either direction. I don't have steam engines so I did not test that. I do agree on #6's though!
Thanks , MIke
Mike I like these No. 4's compared to the No.6 Double Crossover and the Reason is I think the Trains seem to Roll over them a Bit smoother they to me have a little better set of Frogs for the Trains to cross, my only Gripe is that they Tend to Ride a Bit high on a Flat Board or Very Flat surface, I have 2 No. 4's one I use on the Main at the Back side of my Layout where I was using the Double Cross, The one that's in my Yard I Glue it Down to hold it Down instead of using some other Source..
I will say the Double Cross No. 6 Sets allot Flatter to the Board and I think that's do in part of the Flat Metal surface under the Turnout if the 20-220 and 221 had a Metal surface instead of all plastic, I think they would Lay Flatter..
And I Totally Agree I think a No.6 Built like the 20-220 & 221 is much needed it would make Yard making a bit easier I think.. My U.P. Water Tenders Go through these Turnouts really well they hold there own for there Size..
I have a Video of my U.P. SD 90/43 pulling the Tenders with the my U.P. / MOPAC SD 70Ace following in the Consist then pulling my MAXXI's that I got from ya they're doing really Good on the Rails..
On Ending this It's Really Cold out brrr... but warm inside and the Trains are having lots a Fun running on the Rails : ) Take Care Talk ta Soon.. AKR
Nice video, Kato has a video on their website about the sound box as well for those interested. Not to be stepping on your toes there Mike, just sharing the information.
Thanks Raymond, Mike
Very informative Thanks Mike!
Thanks MD , Glad you took a look.
Mike
Thanks Mike, I have looked at the sound unit & thought that maybe something that would be cute for when I show the layout to friends, like you I'm not sure if I want to have sound it the engines either, great review. I just noticed KATO USA does review not the sound unit too, they also so have videos on other sound cards.
Thanks Jack, Wish I could use it with DCC.
Mike
Yep, that would be great too.
I love it, I have the N Scale Amtrak EMD, MY SOUND BOX IS PERFECT.
MICHAEL GLASS Thanks Michael , I need to get one out and do a little experimenting as well.Thanks Again , Mike
Kato make fantastic product. Thanks for the review.
Thanks PB , Mike
Nice job Mike, you sold me on both items !
Thanks Joe , Mike
Hi Mike, nice review. The EMD sound in the sound box sounds pretty good along with the other sounds it offers. This unit definitely sounds better than the generic sound in the MRC sound units. I think the Kato unit would be a nice addition on small layouts using DC power. For larger layouts, I think the SurroundTraxx sound unit for DCC layouts would be better. Kato's crossover track is long overdue. Like you I would like to see it using #6 turnouts. I wonder how 6 axle units would handle the crossover along with the steam locos? I have used Kato Unitrack for 14yrs and have been very satisfied with their quality. Thanks for showing us the new products by Kato!
Thanks so much Randy and I am also a Kato Believer.
Mike
Any chance you could review the Kato 3 light signal and the parts needed to make it work? Really like your channels.
Nope , It is not a USA sold item and only works with DC.
Mike
Hi Mike! Dirty track aside, GREAT review!!
That "Sound Box" is an excellent addition to any DC layout. Does it work with other scales/brands??
I have a friend who would be interested in something like that.
Neck! I'm thinking about a small N Scale layout, or even a coffee table layout. That would be great for it!!
Thank you Mike!
Oh, and I went to Kato's website...
#6 button lowers prime mover to idle sound, for coasting and/or slowing.
Advancing the throttle overrides the #6 function, and revs her back up.
I'm very impressed!
Carmine Allocca I will work with any DC locos and track. Thanks Carmine , Mike
Thanks Mike, Carmine ;)
Hello Mike. Many thanks for a very informative video. I guess it would be correct to say that the Soundbox operation is not limited to just one track ? John ( U.K )
I have the double crossover and some railcars do derail on the #4's. I am planning to remove them and just use peco single crossover using their turnouts. My layout is all peco.
I have the crossover wich is not much good, it always brings off the goods or passenger coaches every time I used it. Tony McKenna Gateacre Liverpool England.
The old momentum/sound systems from years ago had a "breaking" switch you had to hit or pump so you don't drift past your intended stop. Does the throttle on your transformer that actually controls your speed actually drift like in reality and if so...does it immediately come to a stop when you reduce throttle or is it gradual in response like actual momentum systems?
nice video Mike
Thanks Ger , Mike
I am not a fan of the built in momentum. I wonder if there is a work around?
I have seen many complaints about the #4 turnouts and how you have to modify them. So that issue is not a problem on the single cross over? I wonder why.
I have not used a single Xing but would assume they would have the same issues over time
Still use this unit? I ended up buying one but is in storage right now (i.e, moving) so will use when I finally unpack. I don't use a Kato controller so will need to do some splicing of wires.
I never did have one but simply demoing the unit for our shop, but they work well with DC only.
Thanks , Mike
Great Showing Mike Like the SoundBox allot I want one Now for my Small set and that Cross over wished they had em back when I had my ole set I'd probably stayed in the Railroading longer Good Products.. for sure
Hey Mike I'd like add & this might be kind of a long winded Question but can you sometime Demo running 2 engines on a NON" DCC system and the effects on each Engine.! I want to run my 2 engines on my set but I'm kind of Afraid it may hurt one or possibly both engines one of the Guys at Kato USA says it can be Done but unless I haven't looked good enough I have not seen this take place here on TH-cam if it has sorry for not Looking Quite Good enough as I mentioned I like watching all your Videos.. You remind me of my Uncle that was well into all kinds of Hobby He had his Own personal Steam engine one you could ride behind.. I miss him Greatly
akr3985fan I will likely not do a video on that but it is very common to run DC locos on the same train together. In the older days when there was only DC they used what was called Block Control to run more than one train.
modeltrains.about.com/od/electronicsdcc/ss/Wiring-A-Model-Railroad-For-Block-Operation.htm
th-cam.com/video/W73o6g2zjaQ/w-d-xo.html
Thanks , Mike
Mike I didn't see that sound Box on your site? Also does it work with DCC also?
I have the Kato Sound Box , mine is the double loop.
MICHAEL GLASS How does it work for you?Thanks , Mike
I think they did the switch up with the number 4 style so it would look good as to the number 6 style had that screw in the middle of the track at the points ....it looks good whats the cost on them
I think we have them a 49.00 or so.
Mike
Another great video Mike ! Was wondering, since I am DC, use Atlas code 80 and use six Troller Twin Momentum Five transformers, if the sound boxes could be wired to work with them as well. Also what kind of plugs are used for the extra external speakers ?
Thanks, Ernie
I am sure you can Ernie. You may want to look at Kato's video on the sound Box. I am not up on speaker plugs but it just looks like a small stereo plug.
th-cam.com/video/ZspASybSgnQ/w-d-xo.html
Mike
***** OK, thanks Mike.
I've seen center position is Off on some Kato controllers. In your case is Brake. Which is better? Is it a significative difference?
Either one works and I do not think one is better than the other.
Mike
hi did you have to use a step down transformer due to voltage differences between usa and japan. great video btw
Nope, Thanks , Mike
Thanks Mike, have you tested cars with body mounted couplers such as Micro Trains passenger cars
Nope.
Mike
Thanks Mike "Kato like" Fifer.
LOL Thanks OneginForte.
Mike
Nice, thanks
+djstrains Thanks DJ , Good to hear from you.
Mike
Does this work with any Kato engine or do you need an engine with special electronics ? Nice Video ...
This works with any DC engine and any DC power pack. No loco electronics.
Thanks , Mike
is the crossover insulted in the middle between the 2 tracks like the double crossover?
I did not look closely but I think so. Mike
I figure that is for mostly DC locomotives and some dcc locos that don't have sound decoders. sounds like a inexpensive way to add sound if you didn't want to fork out $250+ for a loco with sound. It has the basics at least (bell and horn and engine sound). Good enough for me.
Yes, it only works with DC not DCC
just got single crossover no power at cross . power straight on both sides
The two tracks have different polarities and you are getting a short.
Mike
@@N-Scale moved feeder track on other end all good thank you so much for getting back kurt
Quality stuff
It is.
Mike
Should you glue down Unitrack? if so..how?
I do not. I let the scenery hold it down.
Mike
@@N-Scale Thank you, Big fan. but what about on top of risers or inclines?
@@vincemaloco508 Scenery holds it.
works alot better on a flat surface, and not an incline with that track under the track, otherwise, great video thx.
Nice
but You Ihope thes things got you
+woltar9 ????